Three-Statement Model
A five-year projection where the three statements tie: net income flows to retained earnings, and the cash flow statement explains the change in cash. Small model, correct mechanics — which is the part most spreadsheets get wrong.
| Year | Revenue | EBITDA | Net income | Capex | Cash flow |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Y1 | $100.0M | $15.0M | $6.0M | $5.0M | $5.0M |
| Y2 | $112.0M | $16.8M | $7.0M | $5.6M | $5.9M |
| Y3 | $125.4M | $18.8M | $8.1M | $6.3M | $6.8M |
| Y4 | $140.5M | $21.1M | $9.3M | $7.0M | $7.9M |
| Y5 | $157.4M | $23.6M | $10.7M | $7.9M | $9.2M |
revenue·(margin − opex%) · Operating profit before D&A.
(EBITDA − D&A − interest)(1 − tax) · Flows to retained earnings.
NI + D&A − capex − ΔWC · The bridge to the balance sheet.
A clear path from inputs to results.
A five-year projection where the three statements tie: net income flows to retained earnings, and the cash flow statement explains the change in cash. Small model, correct mechanics — which is the part most spreadsheets get wrong.
How to use
- Set year 1 revenue ($m).
- Set revenue growth (%).
- Set gross margin (%).
- Set operating costs (% of revenue).
- Read the headline metrics, then check the table for the detail.
The formula
Reference: Income statement, cash flow and balance sheet from one set of drivers (Brigham & Ehrhardt, Financial Management).
Worked example
At the default inputs
- Year 1 revenue ($M): 100; Revenue growth (%): 12; Gross margin (%): 45; Operating costs (% of revenue): 30; Depreciation (% of revenue): 4; Opening debt ($M): 50; Interest rate (%): 6; Tax rate (%): 25; Capex (% of revenue): 5
- 1
Year 1 EBITDA: $15.0M · Year 1 net income: $6.0M · Year 5 revenue: $157.4M · Year 5 net income: $9.4M
Year 1 EBITDA: $15.0M · Year 1 net income: $6.0M · Year 5 revenue: $157.4M
Interpreting the result
Year 1 EBITDA is $15.0M on $100.0M of revenue, growing at 12%.
Assumptions & limitations
- Constant margins and growth.
- Working capital held at zero for clarity.
Frequently asked questions
Do the statements tie?
Yes by construction: net income flows to retained earnings and the cash flow explains the change in cash.
What is missing?
Working capital, debt amortisation and a full balance sheet schedule.
Methodology last reviewed 2026-10-22. Results are informational and not financial or engineering advice — see our disclaimer.